Future of Jefferson-Houston is in doubt, even as state and local leaders strike new agreement.

Even as central administrators in Alexandria have finally entered into a memorandum of understanding with state leaders to turn around a troubled school, Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell is considering legislation that would seize control from local leaders.

After years of failing test scores, Jefferson-Houston to select external turnaround partner.

More than a decade of failing test scores and a revolving door of administrators have taken their toll on Jefferson-Houston School, which the Virginia Department of Education was identified as a “priority school” back in August.